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Vgate  |  SKU: B0117

Vgate VLinker BM+ | ELM327 Interface (Bluetooth 4.0)

5.0 out of 5 stars, 4 reviews
Regular price
€46,95 incl.
€38,80 excl.

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The Vgate vLinker BM+ is an advanced ELM327 interface that connects directly to the vehicle’s OBD2 port. The device communicates via a dual-mode Bluetooth 4.0 (BLE) connection with an external smartphone, tablet, or laptop. This diagnostic interface is designed for reading generic and manufacturer-specific fault codes, monitoring live data parameters, and performing in-depth vehicle diagnostics and module coding.

Technically, the interface acts as a bridge between the car’s internal CAN bus network and external diagnostic software. The vLinker BM+ supports standard OBD2 protocols such as CAN, ISO 9141, and KWP2000, but is also hardware-optimized for transferring larger data blocks ("long frames") required for vehicle coding. Once the interface is plugged in and wirelessly paired, the built-in 32-bit microcontroller processes the serial data from the vehicle modules and translates it to the external device. This enables fast integration with specialized applications for parameter changes and real-time data acquisition.

ADVANTAGES

✔ Optimized support for long frames, required for stable vehicle coding via software like BimmerCode.
✔ Dual-mode Bluetooth 4.0 guarantees compatibility with both iOS and Android operating systems.
✔ Equipped with automatic sleep and wake function (3mA standby current) to prevent battery drain.
✔ High UART baud rate for fast processing of live data without noticeable communication delay.

KEY POINTS

✕ The Bluetooth bandwidth is lower than that of a WiFi variant, which is a technical limitation during extreme data streams.
✕ Firmware updates require the specific Vgate application and cannot be performed via third-party diagnostic software.
✕ Not hardware-optimized for the MS-CAN network (Ford/Mazda); a physical switch or custom chip is required for this.

Applications and functionalities

The Vgate vLinker BM+ is primarily designed for vehicle diagnostics and adjusting module parameters. The exact functionality depends on the external software used.

  • Reading and clearing fault codes: Access to the engine control unit (ECU) for identifying and resetting standard and manufacturer-specific Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC).
  • Vehicle coding: Writing new configuration data to specific vehicle modules (e.g., CAS or FEM/BDC in BMWs) to activate hidden functions or change settings.
  • Live data monitoring: Real-time reading of sensor data such as intake pressure, coolant temperature, lambda sensor voltage, and fuel trims.
  • Service and maintenance functions: Support for specialized commands such as registering a new battery or monitoring the diesel particulate filter (DPF) status, depending on app support.

Special features and capabilities

This interface features hardware modifications that distinguish it from standard ELM327 clones, specifically aimed at reliable data transfer during critical processes.

  • Battery Saver Technology: The interface automatically switches to a power-saving sleep mode (about 3mA consumption) when the engine is turned off, and wakes immediately upon network activity on the OBD2 bus.
  • Long Frame Data Processing: The 32-bit microcontroller processes larger data blocks than a standard ELM327 chip, which is essential for stability and data integrity during module coding.
  • Over-Voltage Protection: Integrated protection circuits safeguard the dongle and vehicle electronics against unexpected power surges via the 12V supply from the OBD2 port.
  • Dual-mode Bluetooth: Uses Bluetooth Classic for stable connections with older devices and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for direct, secure integration with iOS applications.

Supported protocols

The interface supports all legally required OBD2 communication protocols, as well as the necessary AT and ST command sets for advanced applications.

  • ISO 15765-4 CAN: The current standard network protocol for modern vehicles, with full support for both 11-bit and 29-bit CAN networks.
  • ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 KWP: Serial data communication protocols, mostly applied in European and Asian vehicles from before CAN bus standardization.
  • SAE J1850 PWM / VPW: Obsolete communication protocols mainly used by North American manufacturers (such as Ford and GM) around the turn of the century.
  • Extended ST Command Set: In addition to the standard ELM327 AT commands, the chipset supports instructions for opening specific data paths required by coding software.

Compatible Software and Apps

The vLinker BM+ is optimized for use with well-known diagnostic and coding applications on the mobile market.

  • BimmerCode (iOS / Android): Specifically designed for accessing and coding control units in BMW, Mini, and the Toyota Supra (A90).
  • BimmerLink (iOS / Android): Application for in-depth module diagnosis, current sensor data, battery registration, and DPF monitoring for BMW and Mini.
  • Car Scanner ELM OBD2 (iOS / Android / Windows): Universal and extensive software for fault diagnosis, live data display, and monitoring of hybrid/EV systems.
  • Torque Pro (Android): Comprehensive application for creating personalized live data dashboards and logging engine parameters while driving.

Compatible Operating Systems

Thanks to the dual-mode Bluetooth chip, the hardware is widely usable across various operating systems.

  • iOS: Compatible with iOS 9.0 and newer. Communication occurs exclusively via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), meaning manual pairing in Apple's Bluetooth menu is neither required nor possible.
  • Android: Compatible with Android 4.4 and newer. Depending on the application, supports both Bluetooth Classic and BLE connection methods.
  • Windows: Compatible with Windows 8, 10, and 11, provided the system has an internal or external Bluetooth adapter that supports the protocol.
💡
Good to know: Never pair the interface on iOS devices via the general Bluetooth settings. Always establish the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connection directly from the settings menu of the chosen diagnostic application to avoid rejection.

Package Contents

  • 1x Vgate vLinker BM+ | ELM327 Interface (Bluetooth 4.0)
  • 1x Manual (English)

Technical specifications

General

The manufacturer of the interface. Universal indicates an unbranded ELM327 clone.Brand
Vgate
The chip inside the interface. A good chip ensures a stable connection and faster data.Chip
32-bit processor

Connection

How the interface communicates with your phone, tablet or laptop: wirelessly via Bluetooth or with a USB cable.Connection to phone or PC
Bluetooth
The version of Bluetooth. A newer version often connects faster and more reliably.Bluetooth version
Bluetooth 4.0
With BLE, the interface also works with an iPhone or iPad. Without BLE, this is usually not possible.Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)
Yes

Compatibility

Which devices you can use the interface with. Pay particular attention to iOS if you have an iPhone.Operating systems
  • Android
  • iOS
  • Windows
Which diagnostic apps and programs the interface works with. Some apps offer more, such as coding for BMW or Ford.Compatible apps
  • Torque Pro
  • Car Scanner
  • BimmerCode
  • BimmerLink
The communication languages the interface supports. Older and American cars sometimes use protocols not every interface recognises.Protocols
  • SAE J1850 PWM/VPW
  • ISO 9141-2
  • KWP2000

Functions

Shows how the engine was running at the moment a fault occurred. Useful for finding the cause.Freeze frame
Yes
Checks whether the car is ready for the emissions test, for example after clearing fault codes.I/M Readiness
Yes
Adjusting vehicle settings, such as enabling hidden options. Works only with apps like BimmerCode or FORScan.Coding
Yes
Resets and learning functions, such as resetting the service interval. This offers more than just reading fault codes.Service resets
Yes
The interface automatically goes to sleep when the car is switched off. This prevents the battery from draining if left connected.Automatic sleep mode
Yes
Protects the interface and the car against excessive voltage or current.Overvoltage protection
Yes

Power

The voltage the interface operates on. Most are designed for 12 volt cars, not 24 volt trucks.Supply voltage
12 V
How much power the interface uses when the car is switched off. Lower is better for the battery.Power consumption in sleep mode
3 mA

Other specifications

Category
ELM327 Interface / OBD2 Dongle
Connection
16-pin OBD2

Reviews

5.0 ★★★★★ 4 reviews
5 ★4
4 ★0
3 ★0
2 ★0
1 ★0
★★★★★ ArnaudVerified buyer

Works as expected. Note that most functionality within the BimmerLink app has to be purchased for an additional 40 euros.

★★★★★ Kevin H.

Great fast delivery

Great fast delivery.
Product is amazing, definitely a recommendation

★★★★★ michel M M A.

Great product and fast delivery.

Great product, works as it should.

★★★★★ M T.

Fast good transaction

Fast good transaction.